India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addresses the ongoing comparisons between Ben Stokes’ workload and Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling strategy.
Ten Doeschate Defends Bumrah Amid Stokes Comparison
Ever since England captain Ben Stokes delivered two marathon spells on the final day of the Lord’s Test against India, comparisons have surfaced regarding his workload versus Jasprit Bumrah’s. Former India pacer Irfan Pathan praised Stokes for prioritizing the team over personal concerns and bowling from one end to secure England’s 22-run win. Pathan criticized the Indian management for not adopting a similar approach with Bumrah, despite the pacer being rested in the previous Edgbaston Test.
Stokes bowled 19.2 overs on Day 5, a pivotal factor in England’s victory. In contrast, Bumrah was held back early in the second innings as skipper Shubman Gill waited for Joe Root to arrive before deploying the No.1 ranked Test bowler for a 5–6 over burst.
India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate addressed the growing debate, asserting that every player has different strengths and cannot be compared to Stokes.
“That was super impressive from Ben to bowl the overs he did with such intensity while also batting and fielding. But we’re not here to compare our bowlers with others. We know what Jasprit brings in shorter spells, which he prefers,” Ten Doeschate said in Beckenham.
‘We use Jasprit in the same way’
India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate emphasized that the team management uses Jasprit Bumrah in a way that maximizes his impact, while also ensuring Mohammed Siraj’s workload is managed effectively. Using Siraj as an example, he explained that not all bowlers thrive under the same conditions or extended spells.
“Some bowlers, like Siraj, deliver their best in their seventh, eighth, and ninth overs. But not everyone needs to be the same. In consultation with Jasprit, we believe the way we use him is best for the team,” Ten Doeschate said.
He further highlighted the importance of Siraj’s contribution, comparing his commitment to that of Ben Stokes on Day 5 at Lord’s.
